Paul Kennedy, the group event co-ordinator, said: “The 2014 festival promises to be bigger and better than last year, showcasing the very best homemade, locally-sourced seasonal fayre from the local area alongside a tasty, exotic and colourful mix from across the globe.

“We have a fantastic line-up of shopping and tasting opportunities, activities and entertainment, designed to appeal to the whole family, and are keen to ensure local businesses have the chance to be part of this exciting experience.”

To throw in an added incentive, booking discounts are being made available for local traders offering home-made and locally-grown produce. Stalls are included for those selling groceries and crafts.

Carole Jones, economic development portfolio-holder at Ipswich Borough Council, said: “This is a big date in the Ipswich calendar and offers yet another reason for thousands of people to visit our Waterfront and also explore the town centre.

“There is so much to see and do and a huge range of produce on offer. I hope we see a great turnout.”

As someone who went last year I do hope it improves. There wasn't really anything fresh or different from the usual marketcontinental market traders that the town often gets and the "beer festival" tent was laughable. I've been in bog standard pubs with more choice of beer than the tent did last year!

I fully agree with evilweazel's comments. The food festival run by Snake in the Grass that was in Christchurch park a few years ago was far better. That event had more stalls, more atomsphere and was far better attended.
IBC are obsessed with forcing the waterfront as the place to be even if it means offering a poorer event.

Please show some thought and respect to the residents who live down there this time and do not point speakers that are set too loud toward the residential buildings. Point the noise out over the water!